Archive · 31 Dec 2025
Majuli Forest Fire Near Jadav Payeng's Molai Kathoni
A fire broke out near a famous man-made forest in Majuli, Assam, created by Jadav Payeng, known as the 'Forest Man of India'.
The fire damaged a new forest area nearby but did not reach the original Molai Kathoni.
Authorities say it was likely an accident, but Payeng's daughter thinks someone set it on purpose because her father opposes illegal sand mining.
People are angry and want a big investigation.
The government has stopped sand mining in the area for now.
A fire damaged a new forest area near Jadav Payeng's famous Molai Kathoni in Majuli, Assam.
Authorities ruled out foul play, suggesting the fire was accidental, possibly from an unattended cooking fire.
Payeng's daughter alleges the fire was deliberately set in retaliation for opposing illegal sand mining.
Opposition leader Debabrata Saikia demands a judicial inquiry and environmental audit of sand mining operations.
The Jorhat district administration has suspended all sand mining activities following the incident.
- Who
- Jadav Payeng and his daughter, local authorities, opposition leader Debabrata Saikia
- What
- Forest fire near Molai Kathoni, allegations of deliberate arson, investigation by authorities
- When
- Fire on December 29, investigation on December 31
- Where
- Majuli, Assam, India
- Why
- Unknown cause, possibly accidental, allegations of retaliation for opposing illegal sand mining
- Location
- Majuli, Assam, India
- Date of Fire
- December 29
- Time of Fire
- 11:15 AM
- Area Affected
- Adjacent new forest, 400-500 meters from Molai Kathoni
- Fire Extinguished
- 2:20 PM on December 29
- Investigation Outcome
- No indication of foul play, likely accidental
- Opposition Demand
- Judicial inquiry and environmental audit
- Sand Mining Status
- Suspended in Jorhat district